Mr Eddy then came out to say he would not be “gagged” by the council after an officer sent committee members an e-mail warning them against speaking about confidential information discussed during the appointment process.

The council has previously stated that the proper appointment process was followed in full but this evening’s meeting was the first time Mr Rees had personally spoken on the matter.

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He said: “In the last two weeks, senior representatives of two opposition parties with 31 years experience between them have openly shared confidential information from HR committee to the press.

“This doesn’t make an atmosphere where we can share information that could harm the council, if councillors have proven themselves untrustworthy or irresponsible.

Mayor Marvin Rees and Anna Klonowski

“We have shown our desire to be open, from the Bundred review (into council finances) to the Green capital receipts to the cross-party cabinet and the city plan.

“Be we also have a duty to be wise, and we simply have to work out who we can trust and who we can’t trust with information that is of critical importance to the future and the wellbeing and welfare of this organisation, and unfortunately some people have shown that they are not in that camp.”